Norton Disney dodecahedron at the Usher Gallery
Mysterious Roman dodecahedron found in Norton Disney on display in the Usher Gallery.
Thought to date from the third or fourth century, the copper alloy, hollow, 12-sided object was found during a community archaeological dig in Norton Disney near Lincoln, in summer 2023. It is one of only 33 such dodecahedrons found in Britain, and the first to have been found in the Midlands. It is also one of the largest examples to be found, measuring around 8cm tall and weighing 245g. Where most other examples are found damaged, or as fragments, the Norton Disney dodecahedron is complete and in remarkable condition after 1,700 years of being buried.
Their purpose has been lost in the mists of time, as there are no references to them in Roman texts or depictions of them. Based on scientific evidence, it is believed they were not practical items, but associated with Roman rituals and religious practice.
Richard Parker, secretary of the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group which found the dodecahedron, said: “Despite all the research that has gone into our dodecahedron, and others like it, we are no closer to finding out exactly what it is and what it might have been used for. The mystery that surrounds it has provoked quite a reaction. Our find received worldwide press attention earlier this year and many people have left us messages with varied and somewhat contradictory suggestions about its purpose.
“The dodecahedron is an extremely tactile object and, having been privileged to have handled it after its 1,700 year burial, the imagination races when thinking about what the Romans may have used it for. Magic, rituals or religion; we perhaps may never know.
“What we do know is the Norton Disney dodecahedron was found on the top of a hill in a former large pit of some kind. It seems it was deliberately placed there. Why would someone bury an object like this? Did it have religious or ritualistic significance? What else might we find nearby?".
In the summer of 2024, the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group re-opened the trench where the docdecahedron was discovered, as well as investigating other features on the site. The finds are being processed and will in time provide more information about this area in the Roman period.
Since its display in Lincoln Museum from May 2024, we have received many and various suggestions as to its purpose. The dodecahedron will be on display in the Usher Gallery until March 2025.
Come see the dodecahedron for yourself, in the Usher Gallery, Thursday to Monday from 10am to 4pm. Free entry.
Photo: Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group